Once again, it’s time for the annual Hancock Whitney White Linen Night, a block party of sorts paying homage to the city’s galleries and museums in the Warehouse District.

At the “SoHo of the South,” artists and galleries operating along Julia Street open their doors while folks hop from place to place, wearing white linen. According to Experience New Orleans, the tradition dates back to a time before air-conditioned cars, when “New Orleanians had to find creative ways to stay cool while going from one place to another.” As such, people wore heat-reflecting white and breathable linen. “As a tip of the hat to that piece of The Big Easy’s colorful past, and as a way to mingle with current and potential customers, the Warehouse District merchants began throwing the White Linen Night in 1994 and haven’t stopped since.”

The dress code isn’t strict for the block party, which takes place on the first Saturday evening in August and is presented by the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC). This year’s White Linen Night kicks off at the 600 block of Julia Street from 5:30 p.m. until 9 p.m. The CAC will host an after party (featuring DJ RQ Away) for which $10 tickets can be purchased at the door. For $50, folks can hit the Cool Down Lounge at 801 Magazine Street, where they’ll receive two complimentary drinks, light bites, private restrooms and seating with air conditioning, plus access to the CAC Afterparty.

All proceeds from ticket sales benefit the CAC. For more information on Hancock Whitney White Linen Night and all related events, click here.